The Cost of a Trip Between Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Kirkwood, Missouri Based on Current Gas Prices

Introduction

When planning a trip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Kirkwood, Missouri, it's important to consider the cost of the journey, especially with fluctuating gas prices. There are several routes to choose from, each with its own distance and potential cost. In this article, we'll explore the different possible routes and highlight the cost and distance of each one, ultimately recommending the best route based on current gas prices.

Route 1: Interstate 380 to Interstate 80

The most direct route from Cedar Rapids to Kirkwood is to take Interstate 380 south to Interstate 80. From there, you'll continue on Interstate 80 until you reach Kirkwood. This route covers a distance of approximately 305 miles and takes around 4.5 hours to complete. Based on the current average gas price of $2.50 per gallon, and assuming a vehicle with an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, the cost of this route would be approximately $61 for a round trip.

Route 2: Highway 1 to Highway 218 to U.S. Route 34

Another route to consider is taking Highway 1 south to Highway 218, and then connecting to U.S. Route 34 to reach Kirkwood. This route covers a distance of approximately 320 miles and takes around 5 hours to complete. With the same average gas price and vehicle fuel efficiency, the cost of this route would be approximately $64 for a round trip.

Route 3: U.S. Route 30 to U.S. Route 218 to U.S. Route 63

A longer but potentially more scenic route is to take U.S. Route 30 to U.S. Route 218, and then connect to U.S. Route 63 to reach Kirkwood. This route covers a distance of approximately 335 miles and takes around 5.5 hours to complete. Based on the same gas price and vehicle fuel efficiency, the cost of this route would be approximately $67 for a round trip.

Recommendation: Interstate 380 to Interstate 80

Based on the current gas prices and the distance of each route, the most cost-effective and time-efficient option would be to take Interstate 380 south to Interstate 80. This route not only offers the shortest distance and travel time but also allows for easy navigation and access to amenities along the way. With a round trip cost of approximately $61, it provides the best value for the journey from Cedar Rapids to Kirkwood.

Conclusion

In conclusion, based on the current gas prices and distance, taking Interstate 380 south to Interstate 80 is the recommended route for a trip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Kirkwood, Missouri. With a round trip cost of approximately $61 and a travel time of around 4.5 hours, this route offers the best balance of affordability and convenience for the journey. Of course, the actual cost and travel time may vary depending on factors such as vehicle fuel efficiency, traffic conditions, and unexpected stops along the way. However, as of now, this route provides a cost-effective and efficient means of reaching Kirkwood from Cedar Rapids.